AppealsWhen you file for unemployment benefits, the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce (DEW) investigates the claim. The agency will contact you and your former employer and then issue a letter detailing its initial finding on your eligibility for benefits. The letter will list any points of law it considered in making the determination.

If you disagree with the decision, you have the right to file an appeal. Each determination letter contains detailed appeal rights and information; make sure to read this information thoroughly. Your former employer, or any employer whose unemployment insurance tax account is affected by your claim, can also appeal the decision.

And if you disagree with the decision upon appeal, you can take your claim to the Appellate Panel. This must occur within 10 calendar days of the mailing date listed on the appeal decision.

It is important that you continue to file your claim for benefits while an appeal is pending. Continuing to file for weekly unemployment benefits gives you credit for weeks between when the appeal was filed and the decision. Failure to file may result in the loss of benefits, even if you win the appeal.

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How to file an appeal?

You may file an appeal by completing a Notice of Appeal to the Appeal Tribunal Form (APP-100) or writing an appeal letter detailing your disagreement with the determination. Your appeal form or letter must include your name and Social Security number.

By law you must file your appeal within 10 calendar days of the mailing date listed on the determination. If the 10th day falls on a weekend or recognized holiday, the appeal period extends to the next business day.

All appeal documents (APP-100, APP-107 and APP-111) must contain the handwritten signature of the party completing the document before they will be accepted. After completing the appropriate document please print, sign and return it to DEW’s Appeals Division via fax or regular mail at the address or number provided on the form and below.